The spiritual potential of humanity
- perhaps the survival of humanity itself -
is intimately connected with our ability to develop true compassion.

COMPASSION IS AN ESSENTIAL PRINCIPLE in our human journey. The need for compassion remains constant amid our ever-changing concepts of what it means to be spiritual beings. Compassion's primacy is often overlooked in our search for mystical meaning and esoteric understanding. As we grow in awareness, we come to see that compassion is crucial to every step of our development.

Compassion takes many forms and manifestations - love, patience, tolerance, acceptance, forgiveness, kindness, tenderness, empathy, consideration and cooperation - all of which demonstrate that the spiritual potential of humanity - perhaps the survival of humanity itself - is intimately connected with our ability to develop true compassion.

Kindness, one of the many manifestations of compassion, is a universal language understood by all. Kindness transcends all of our ideologies and beliefs and brings us the largest possible view. It opens our hearts to include everyone and everything regardless of appearances. Kindness is multi-dimensional, affecting us in the simplest and most profound ways. A sincere smile from a stranger can change our entire outlook; loving kindness toward ourselves can help us face our greatest fears.

Kindness and compassion toward ourselves - toward our own pain and confusion - leads us to recognize our innocence. As we let go of guilt and self-recrimination we are empowered to learn from our mistakes and take more responsibility in our lives. Cultivating a more loving and forgiving relationship with ourselves also empowers us to develop and share the unique gifts and talents that we have been given.

Being compassionate towards oneself is sometimes viewed as selfish or un-spiritual. To think that others deserve more - or less - than we do is another way we stay in self-denial and suffering. Compassion is a direct antidote to the pain of our lives. The simple intention of compassion is so powerful that it can often generate the energy needed to raise our consciousness beyond the pain we are experiencing. Considering the innocent child aspect of who we are helps us make a compassionate connection with ourselves.

Compassion is the bridge to true understanding. When we really consider another's reality and experience, we make an authentic connection with them. No longer is "our" healing more important than anyone else's. Our ego would have us believe that we can rid ourselves of guilt and unworthiness by projecting these feelings onto others. But reality shows us that the opposite is true. Whatever we extend or project is what we cultivate and receive. Through this understanding, our relationships - learning to love and accept others - become fertile ground for self-love and self-acceptance.

Partner Yoga provides many wonderful opportunities to cultivate and practice compassion. Learning to be compassionately present with what is - in ourselves and our relationships - is the pathway to transformation. As we open our hearts and consciously join together, we begin to sense and feel ourselves as ever-expanding manifestations of love.

THE PRACTICE: Mirror of Compassion

This practice helps us to realize our essential sameness. It is an opportunity to see how we project not only our negative but also our positive attributes. The foundation for this practice is honesty and compassionate acceptance of the full range of human qualities that exists in each of us.

1. Both partners sit facing each other, a comfortable distance apart in an easy cross-legged position. Take a moment to close the eyes, focus energy in the heart center and feel the connection to the ground. When ready, open eyes and gaze softly at each other.
2. Partner One looks at Partner Two as though for the first time. Let go of all preconceptions and former ideas held about Partner Two. Notice what qualities are perceived now, in this moment.
3. Partner One holds an awareness of Partner Two as a reflection of themselves as they begin to honestly relate what human qualities are being perceived. Notice how your words affect Partner Two. Remember whatever qualities seen in Partner Two are inherent in you.
4. Consider how powerfully we impact each other through our perception. When we practice seeing the goodness and innocence in others, judgment transforms into clear compassionate seeing. Partner Two may use this opportunity to relax defensive armoring, letting himself be seen in truth.
5. Each partner bow in gratitude, softly close the eyes and connect to your center. When ready, reverse roles.

© 2006, Elysabeth Williamson
All images © www.wisdom-arts.com, 2006

For more information, your own copy of this gorgeous hardcover book,
or to check out Elysabeth and Rex's workshop calendar,
visit Wisdom Arts online at www.wisdom-arts.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elysabeth Williamson has studied and practiced Yoga for more than thirty years. She has taught a unique synthesis of various traditions of Yoga for eighteen years. Elysabeth currently teaches at the Shambhala Meditation Center in Boulder, Colorado. She also travels internationally facilitating workshops on The Pleasures and Principles of Partner Yoga. Elysabeth lives in Colorado with her partner, Rex.